The artwork in question, “Study for the Last Supper,” is attributed to the renowned High Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci, created around 1495 in Milan, Italy. This piece is executed using metalpoint and ink on paper, exemplifying da Vinci’s meticulous approach to preparatory sketches. Measuring at 14.5 cm by 11.3 cm, this study is a testament to the artist’s dedication to form and detail. The genre of the work is classified as a sketch and study, and it currently resides in the Albertina museum in Vienna, Austria.
This particular study illustrates a detailed portrait of a bearded man gazing off to the side with an expression of concern or deep thought. The furrowed brow, the lines etched into the face, and the intensity of the eyes are noteworthy, showcasing da Vinci’s skill in capturing human emotion and expression. The figure’s attire is sketched with care, suggesting a draped garment with flowing lines and creases. The delicate attention to the anatomy of the neck, the collarbone, and the outline of the shoulders demonstrates the artist’s interest in the realistic portrayal of the human form, even in preparatory work.
